Scientists Develop Long-Lasting Vaccines with Memory-Rich Immune Cells

(MENAFN) Australian researchers have developed a potent new method for creating long-lasting vaccines and potentially transforming cancer immunotherapy by leveraging a unique immune cell known for its strong memory capabilities.

Scientists at Australia's Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) announced Thursday that they combined cutting-edge mRNA vaccine technology with a novel way to modulate the immune system. This combination significantly increased the production of stem cell-like memory CD8+ T cells. These special immune cells possess the ability to self-renew and retain the memory of infections for extended periods, potentially offering lifelong protection.

Lead researcher Joanna Groom, Head of WEHI's Immunology Division, explained that while most current vaccines primarily rely on antibodies, which decrease over time and necessitate frequent booster shots, these memory T cells offer robust, long-term immunity.

The researchers believe this breakthrough could lead to the development of next-generation vaccines that may not require regular boosters to remain effective, even against rapidly evolving viruses such as influenza and COVID-19, according to the study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine.

The WEHI press release highlighted the unique characteristic of these cells, stating, "Like elephants, stem cell-like CD8+ T cells have the ability to 'remember' previous infections and respond rapidly to threats."

Groom expressed enthusiasm about the findings, stating, "We were incredibly excited at how effective our new vaccine strategy was at boosting these cells," he further noted, "Our approach has the potential to reduce the need for frequent booster shots, while maintaining strong and lasting immunity."

The research also indicates potential benefits for cancer treatment, as the study demonstrated a correlation between higher levels of stem cell-like CD8+ T cells and improved outcomes for cancer patients.

Benjamin Broomfield, the study's first author and a PhD student at the University of Melbourne, noted that the team is currently working on adapting this technique to develop cancer vaccines.

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